German Foreign Minister Westerwelle congratulates Somalia's new President

BERLIN, Germany, September 13, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Foreign Minister Westerwelle has congratulated Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his becoming Somalia's new President. He issued the following statement in Berlin today (12 September):

In an extremely difficult situation in Somalia, the new President is cause for optimism.

The election of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud fosters the hope that Somalia will see a fresh start politically.

It is crucial that the regular government of Somalia under the new president succeed with the help of the African Union and the international community in regaining control of the country and making progress in the process of peace and reconciliation.

Germany supports all steps towards consolidation of the state and reconciliation in Somalia